In these readings we meet Moses, one of the greatest and most significant Old Testament figures.  Moses grew up as a privileged member of Pharaoh’s royal family, but had to flee Egypt when he murdered an Egyptian who had been abusing one of the Israelites.  Years later, the Lord appeared to him in a burning bush and called him to go to Egypt and tell Pharaoh to “let my people go” free from their slavery.  In these passages from the book of Exodus, we’ll see how God called Moses and how God was intimately controlling the “defining moments” (for example, the plagues and the crossing of the Red Sea) by which he delivered his people and brought about their exodus.

Discussion Guide

Purpose: To learn from the way Moses encounters God and how God’s actions in the special times of our lives shape and define us.

Exodus 1-2

  • Moses faced both challenges and opportunities growing up in Pharaoh’s household.  How have the difficulties and opportunities in your past prepared you for your life today?
  • Do you have a mission in life? If so, how would you describe it?

    Exodus 3:1-4:17

    • Moses encountered God at the burning bush.  What are some ways that people encountered God today? How do you encounter him?
    • Have you ever had a kind of “burning bush” experience? If so, explain.
    • Moses was afraid to look at God.  How would you describe your relationship with God? Is fear involved? Why or why not?
    • Have you like Moses, ever felt inadequate and unprepared for something God wanted you to do? If so, explain the situation. Did God help you in any way?

    Exodus 6:28-11:10

    • God’s was clearly involved in the affairs of Egypt at that time.  How involved do you think God is in the world today? Explain your answer and give examples.
    • Some people think that natural disasters, like the plagues on Egypt, are expressions of God’s judgment.  What do you think?

    Exodus 12:1-42

    • What does the account of the Passover and Exodus show you about God?
    • Why do you suppose the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt has inspired people throughout the ages? What do these events say to you?

    Exodus 13:17-14:31

    • The Exodus and crossing the Red Sea were defining moments for the Israelites. What have been the defining moments in your life?  How do they affect you?
    • Have you had any defining moments with God? If so, what happen?

    Before the Next Time: Reflect on Moses’ interactions with God and the way God personally delivered his people from slavery. Consider all the miraculous signs and how God fulfilled his promises. How does this change the way you see or interact with God? Thank the lord, the great I AM who fulfills his promises.